Change a Jet Tub Into a Soaking Tub

My bathroom tub (see image 1) has eight jets connected to a motor which produces a whirlpool motion and bubbles. About a decade ago I stopped using the jets, so I disconnected the motor. However, over the years, dirt and bacteria have gotten into the jets. In order to have a clean and healthy tub, I decided to change my jet tub into a soaking tub. The process involved removing the jets and exterior rings, filling in the openings, covering the openings, and siliconing the covers.

Supplies

Henkel Corporation 908570 2.7 oz Tub Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant, Single Tube (see image 2)

Loctite 1919324 Marine Epoxy 0.85-Fluid Ounce Syringe (1405604), 1 Pack, White (see image 2)

Door Stopper Wall Protector 4 PCS 3.15" (see image 2)

Dap 08641 Clear Silicone Sealant 9.8-Ounce

Cleaning Vinegar

99.9% Isopropyl Alcohol

Mixing bowl or old food carton

Rags and paper towels

Small sponges

Painter's tape

Craft sticks or toothpicks

Mineral Spirits

Tools

Rotary Tool - https://amzn.to/3wkHtSM

Cutting tool

Grinding tool

Screwdriver (Flat) - https://amzn.to/3f3P5mR

Toothbrush (old) - for detailed cleaning

Screwdriver (Phillips) - https://amzn.to/3ftADDz

Wrench and/or Pliers - https://amzn.to/34cdY9L

Box cutter - https://amzn.to/3yqRHTq

Caulking Gun - https://amzn.to/3yicSa2

KN95 Face Mask - https://amzn.to/3woJuxf

Disposable Plastic Gloves - https://amzn.to/3v2MzCX

1. The eight jets (see image 1) and the suction cover (see image 2) need to be removed.

2. The suction cover is attached using two screws. Remove the two screws and pull off the Suction Cover (see image 3).

3. Use a wrench (see image 4) or pliers to rotate each jet counterclockwise and then pull it out (see image 5).

4. Clean the dirty outer ring (see image 6) using vinegar or your favorite tub cleaner and a toothbrush. Make sure the outside ring is clean (see image 7).

1. Combine equal parts vinegar and isopropyl alcohol in a mixing bowl.

2. Soak a rag in the mixture.

3. Apply the mixture (using the rag) around the outside of each exterior ring (see images 1 and 2). The mixture will soften and expand the old silicone.

4. Allow the mixture to soak in for at least one hour.

1. Slide a screwdriver or utility knife around the rim (between the ring and the tub) of the exterior ring to remove the silicone. The should come off like rubber bands in one piece.

2. Removing the silicone may crack the exterior ring making it easy to break off. If not, then use a screwdriver to apply leverage in order to break off the exterior ring. If that proves too difficult, then use a rotary tool with a cutting wheel attachment to cut them off (see image 1).

Note: An option is to remove the entire piece attached to the exterior ring. You will need a jet wrench in order to remove the nut and then pull the entire piece out.

1. Attach the grinding attachment to the rotary tool.

2. Sand down any remaining part of the exterior ring so that it is flush with the tub (see image 1).

1. Clean the openings and surrounding areas using a rag.

2. Insert small sponges into each opening.

3. Leave overnight to ensure that the openings are completely dry.

1. Fill each opening with silicone (see image 1).

Note: I used a clear (not specifically water-proof) silicone for this step. I applied it using a caulking gun.

1. Mix the epoxy glue (per instructions on the packaging). Be sure to wear a mask and plastic gloves.

2. Remove the paper on the back of the wall protector.

3. Apply glue to the back of the wall protector and to the tub.

4. Press the wall protector against the the tub.

5. Hold in place for one minute.

6. Apply painters tape over the wall protector to hold in place (see image 1).

7. Repeat for each jet.

8. Let set overnight.

1. Gently remove the painter's tape (see image 1).

2. Apply silicone to the back of the suction cover. Make sure all of the holes are covered (see image 2).

3. Screw the suction cover back in place (see image 3).

4. Apply water-proof silicone around each wall protector and the suction cover (see image 4).

5. Smooth out the silicone using a craft stick, tooth pick, or your finger (see image 5).

6. Let the silicone set over night (see image 6).

7. Check the silicone for the door protectors and the suction cover to ensure that it completely surrounds each piece (see image 7).

Note: Use mineral spirits and paper towels to clean hands and remove any errant silicone.